Mechanics: Momentum and Collisions

Momentum and Collisions: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 10:

Cassie has just finished her session on the trampoline during PE. As she prepares to exit the trampoline, her vertical momentum is reduced by a series of three resistive impulses with the bounce mat. Just prior to this series of impulses, her 48.5-kg body is moving downward at 8.20 m/s. On the first impulse, Cassie experiences an average upward force of 230 N for 0.65 seconds. The second impulse of 112 N•s lasts for 0.41 seconds. The last impulse involves an average upward force of 116 N which cases a 84 kg•m/s momentum change. What vertical velocity does Cassie have after these three impulses?

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 1.50 kg, vi = 2.68 m/s,  F = 4.98 N, t = 0.133 s, vf = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

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